October is National Dental Hygiene Month and time to pay extra attention to your oral health. Taking care of your teeth and gums is necessary not only for a beautiful smile but also for your overall health. Here are five tips to help you achieve amazing oral health.
At Soft Touch Dentistry, Dr. Nazila Bidabadi, DMD, combines her two decades of experience with a compassionate approach to provide personalized, patient-centered care. A well-respected dentist with a reputation for excellence, she also serves as a clinical instructor at the Harvard University School of Dental Medicine, where she shares her expertise in cosmetic and general dentistry.
Brush Twice a Day
Many people overlook the importance of brushing twice daily– once in the morning and once in the evening. When shopping for toothpaste, don’t fall for trendy packaging, but look for toothpaste with fluoride for the best protection against cavities. Additionally, ensure you are using a toothbrush with soft bristles, which it says on the packaging. A soft toothbrush removes plaque and bacteria and is gentle on your gums. Set a timer for two minutes while brushing, and be sure to reach every tooth surface, including the back molars and your tongue.
Floss Daily
Flossing may seem time-consuming, but it is imperative to oral health and just as important as brushing. Floss your teeth at least once daily to eliminate food particles and plaque that build up between the teeth and along the gum line. Flossing allows you to clean the parts of the teeth that brushing may miss, preventing cavities and gum disease.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Sugary snacks and drinks may be hard to resist, but they can cause serious damage to your oral health. A sugary diet can cause tooth decay. Conversely, eating healthful foods can help strengthen your teeth. Eat yogurt, cheese, lean meat, and veggies to keep teeth in their best shape.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Dental checkups may not be at the top of your list of favorite things to do, but they are essential to maintaining oral health. Schedule your visits every six months, as dentists can discover issues like cavities or gum disease before symptoms present themselves and problems worsen. Going too long between dental visits could cost you in the long run.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is a quick and easy way to keep your mouth healthy and clean. After eating, water can rinse away leftover food particles or bacteria. It also keeps your mouth hydrated and reduces the risk of dry mouth, which can result in tooth decay and bad breath.
Ensure Teeth and Gums Are Healthy in Newton, MA
Following these five simple tips during National Dental Hygiene Month will make you well on your way to a healthier, brighter smile! Call our Brighton office today at 617-782-9250 or our Newton office at 617-332-8146 to schedule an appointment.
